A quality knife is one of the must-have requirements for every kitchen. There is no doubt about it. You can have the recipes right and possess professional skills, but if your knife isn't good enough for the task, you will encounter challenges. And if a quality knife is what you are hunting, then you should give Tojiro knives a try. The knives are designed with high-quality steel for an ultra-sharp blade and great efficiency. Better still; they can be used to complete different tasks which make them a great addition to your kitchen.
However, all knives are not equal. So before you can make up your mind, you need to make a careful comparison of our Tojiro knives review. In addition, we have done a detailed guide to aid you in selecting your desired model. In this review, you will also get great tips on how to maintain your knives and some of the frequently asked questions about Tojiro knives. But before we get to the fun part, here is a comparison table for the products we have featured in the review.Best Pick
After making a careful comparison, Tojiro DP Gyutou (24cm) knife managed to stand out from the competition. The knife features stain-resistant steel which is double-edged for a balanced and unmatched cutting experience. With a Rockwell hardness of 60 and a composite wooden handle, this knife delivers convenience and efficiency required to conquer different recipes with confidence.
Budget Pick
Tojiro DP Gyutou (21cm) is the Tojiro knife to go to when on a budget. The blade is stain resistant, affordable and ideal for use by both right and left-hand users. The handle is triple riveted for increased strength and durability making it our best budget pick.
Quick Comparison: Top 5 Best Tojiro Knives
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1. Tojiro DP Gyutou-9.4”
Highlighted Features
With a Rockwell hardness rating of 60:1, this Tojiro DP Gyutou knife can retain a sharp edge for long. The blade is constructed using the ‘honwarikomi’ method. The design process involves a combination of 13% chromium stainless steel and premium quality Swedish Carbon steel.
The carbon steel is typically encased in front and backed in with the stainless steel plate for a sharp and long-lasting cutting edge which is easy to maintain. That’s not all; the knife is also double-edged which means you can sharpen it on both sides for an increased blade precision.
Its composite wood handle is comfy and triple riveted for added strength and durability. At 24cm (9.4"), this Tojiro DP series will give you versatility and confidence to handle any recipe.2. Tojiro DP Gyutou-8.2”
Highlighted Features
Whether you are a left or right handed, this knife could be a great addition to your home. The tool boasts of its blade length and height which measures 8.2 and 1.7” respectively. Both these features enable you to cut through even the most demanding recipes with ease.
Its high precision blade is made from premium quality steel which resists stains and retains its precision for long. Better still; the knife is also handy and easy to maintain which makes it ideal for both beginners and professional chefs.3. Tojiro DP Damascus Chef's Knife
Highlighted Features
Nothing can ruin your cooking experience like a poorly designed knife. But with this Tojiro DP Damascus knife, you can spice up your cooking without having to feel the knife weight in your hands. The tool is professionally designed to offer you unmatched cutting experience and comfort.
Boasting of its high precision blade Tojiro Damascus knife features a Damascus pattern which cannot be duplicated. Its unique construction process makes this Damascus knife standout from its peers. For increased durability, the knife is made by forging 37 layers of low carbon and high-quality carbon stainless steel.
The layers are then covered with a thick premium Cobalt VG10 alloy core which gives it a distinct appearance. It's triple riveted Micarta handle offers you a secure grip enabling you to conquer any recipe that comes your way. With a Rockwell hardness rating of 60, you can enjoy high precision blade for longer.
4. Tojiro DP Damascus Hollow Edge Santoku Knife
Highlighted Features
This Tojiro DP Damascus Santoku knife boasts of its 7” hollow edge which makes dicing, slicing fruits and chopping a breeze. The blade is constructed by combining 37 layers of high Carbon stainless steel with low carbon which is then folded with a VG-10 Cobalt steel alloy.
When using the knife, you do not have to worry about aching wrists. The knife is triple riveted with a bolster to keep it well balanced and comfortable. The blade is strong enough to maintain a sharp edge for long. The closed bolster offers a full sharpening experience making its maintenance.
5. Tojiro DP Slim Knife Block Set
Highlighted Features
Every professional chef knows how having a knife set can ease the cooking process. And that’s what you get with this Tojiro DP knife set. The set comes with professionally designed knives which will enable you to carry out different tasks with ease.
Every piece is triple riveted for a secure and unmatched cutting experience. The blade features a Rockwell hardness of 60 which is good enough to retain a sharp edge for long. The price is also right which means you get quality and more knives for less.
Factors to Consider When Buying Tojiro Knives
Knife Type
Tojiro knives are of different types with each designed for a specific purpose. Most of the commonly sold in the market today include Gyuto, Santoku, and Nakiri among others.
Gyuto knives are versatile and are designed to help you complete varied tasks. Due to their versatility, they are also referred to as the chef’s knife. You can utilize them for vegetables, different meat cuts, chopping, and for making fine cuts.
Its blade length usually determines Gyuto knife efficiency. Though they may vary from 21 cm to 27cm(8 to 10 inches), with the 21 cm one will be agile. For an excellent slicing experience, a 24 cm long one is recommended. If you are looking for a more slicing poser, then a 27cm knife will do. However, you should also note that a long knife will make it challenging to perform cuts efficiently and you may encounter challenges using a 27cm one.
Santoku knives are flatter as compared to Gyuto with a lesser pointy tip. The standard sizes range from 16.5cm to 18 cm and are ideal for vegetable or fish. When cutting, the knives do not require you to raise your shoulders high. This great feature enables you to position your body in a natural position and reduce your fatigue levels.
Another feature which makes Santoku knives a great pick is the fact that they do not require much space. The feature makes them ideal for those with limited cutting space.
Nakiri, on the other hand, has a flat edge and allows you to cut denser product with ease. The general sizes typically range from 16.5cm to 18cm. Due to its excellent slicing power, Nakiri knives can be a great alternative for Santoku.
Blade style
Tojiro knives can either be single or double beveled. Usually, the single beveled models taper on one side and require expertise to use. Double beveled models, on the other hand, can be sharpened on both sides and do not need experience, making them ideal for beginners.
In case you have no experience with Tojiro knives, then we suggest that you invest in a double beveled model and then upgrade later.
Right/ Left handed model
When shopping for knives, most people do not consider their dominant hand. Not every model in the market is designed for everybody. While some brands can be used with any side, some may limit you.
In case you are shopping for a kitchen knife, and you are not the only one who does the cooking, then, you should invest in a model that can be used by right or left-handed users. This is to ensure that everyone has a great cooking experience.
Material
Knives are designed using different steel types. The material used plays a significant role in its sharpness, edge retention, and durability. The most commonly used steel types include Stainless steel, carbon steel, and high carbon stainless steel.
Carbon steel models are easy to sharpen and retain their edge for long. The only challenge with carbon steel is that it is susceptible to rust and requires great care.
Stainless steel models are resistant to stains and rust but do not retain their edge. However, they can be an excellent pick for you if you are on a budget.
High carbon steel knives are rust and stain resistance. To own one, you will be required to part with extra bucks.
Handle design
A knife should be comfortable enough to enable you to prepare your meals with ease. Whether you spend the entire day in the kitchen or spend some few hours, you should never purchase without considering your knife handle design.
This can vary in regards to the size of your palm. The handle should provide enough gripping area which perfectly fits your hand, not too small not too big, just right.
Triple-riveted handles offer maximum support for the steel blade and help increase your knives durability.
Handle material
Knife handles are either made of wood, plastic or high-quality resins. Wooden handles give the knife a traditional look and may require proper maintenance depending on the material used. In case you decide to settle on wooden handles make sure you choose a high-quality model made from composite wood.
Unlike wood, plastic handles do not require maintenance. They are easy to clean but can break when dropped. However, some plastics may contain BPA which can be a threat to human life.
Due to these challenges, most manufacturers use high-quality resin. A good example is Micarta handles. The handles are soaked and baked in resin to produce a stronger, durable and quality handles.
Edge retention
Knife edge retention is usually determined by its ability to retain its edges even after repeat sharpening, regular use or when dropped.
Steel Hardness
The Rockwell hardness scale determines the steel harness of knives. The steel harness determines the fragility and edge retention capabilities. A rockiness hardness of 58 to 62 is highly recommended.
Weight
The size and weight of your knife should be well balanced to avoid straining your body or using excessive energy to get even simple tasks done. However, it should not also be too light but ideal for convenience.
Warranty
Some manufacturers will offer limited lifetime cover for their knives while others give a lifetime warranty. Veteran manufacturers have confidence in their products and are not scared of treating their consumers with a lifetime warranty. However, remember to read the guarantee conditions. Always take caution and avoid misusing your knife as doing so may render your warranty useless.
Care and maintenance of Tojiro knives
Just like any other kitchen knife, Tojiro knives require proper maintenance. Making use of these tips will not only help you keep your knife in good physical shape but also increase its durability.
Cleaning
When you purchase your knife, it comes when it’s already honed. However, before testing it, ensure you clean it thoroughly using your hands and a mild dishwashing liquid. Besides, Tojiro knives are not dishwasher safe.
Use
Most Tojiro knives are versatile, but that does not mean they are meant to be used on anything. Before buying your knife get to know its purpose to help prevent any misuse which may deteriorate the blade. Never use a knife to open a screwdriver, or as a can opener.
When cutting, most people tend to use the up-down method which makes the blade dull faster. Instead, use the forward and backward method.
Avoid cutting through bones. When slicing through frozen foods, ensure you are vigilant enough. Always use the forward and backward motion and avoid twisting the knife as this can result in blade chipping.
Storing
Tojiro knives are susceptible to high temperatures and exposure to heat can damage the blade. They require proper storage to prevent injuries or misuse by children. To keep them safe it is highly recommended to use knife blocks, knife rolls, magnetic wall racks, and knife guards. Before storing your knife ensure it is sparklingly clean and dry.
Maintenance
After repeated use of your knife, it will slowly lose its efficiency. This may be triggered by a dull blade or use of the wrong chopping board. Tojiro knives are ultra-sharp and to increase its efficiency, plastic or wooden chopping boards are recommended. Using marble glass surfaces or stone increased blade chipping.
Tojiro knives frequent asked questions
Are Tojiro knives worth it?
Tojiro knives are affordable, durable and easy to maintain. They retain their crazy sharp blades for long, so you do not have to worry about regular sharpening. Most of them are versatile which makes them an excellent choice for anyone who may be searching for a quality knife on a budget.
Where are Tojiro knives made?
Tojiro knives are made in Japan and are one of the kitchen tools you will find in every Japanese home. However, they are sold across the world, and today you can find one in any home. Those who are familiar with these amazing cutleries understand well the essence of owning one.
What does DP stand for?
DP stands for Decarburization Prevention Method. This implies that during the manufacture of the blade, a technology which prevents hardness reduction as a result of carbon movement within composite raw materials was used.
What is Damascus steel made of?
Damascus steel is usually characterized with distinct wave pattern which sets the knives apart. The designs are as a result of laminating different layers of steel. The materials are then rolled and forged increasing the blade strength which has high edge retention.